§ 1. Sir Herbert Williamsasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can furnish a list of the countries, outside the British Empire, in the Parliaments of which the practice of the interrogation of Ministers by means of questions is in operation?
§ The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Eden)In present circumstances it would be impossible with the material at our disposal to draw up a list with any degree of accuracy, but if my hon. Friend desires, I can take steps to obtain up-to-date information as regards those countries with which His Majesty's Government now maintain diplomatic relations.
§ Sir H. WilliamsMay I ask my right hon. Friend whether he knows of more than about two countries in the whole world that have our democratic practice?
§ Mr.EdenNo, Sir, I do not know that I do, but, of course, methods differ. There are interpolations of different kinds, not always like our Question time.
§ Mr. De la BereIs it not a fact that at Question time, in a few moments, we always give the Government a great deal of advice?
§ Commander Sir Archibald SouthbyIs it not a fact that Question time is very good for the Ministers?